Long & Lean Jacket in Lion Brand Homespun - 70640B

Long & Lean Jacket in Lion Brand Homespun

What Is Being Made

The Long & Lean Jacket is a classic knitted cardigan-style jacket designed to flatter with an elongated silhouette. This free knitting pattern from Lion Brand Yarn offers five size options ranging from Small through 2X, with finished chest measurements from 37 inches (94 cm) to 52 inches (132 cm) and finished lengths between 33 and 35 inches (84–89 cm). The pattern is ideal for crafters seeking a wearable, versatile layering piece that combines comfort with timeless style.

Skill Level and Suitability

Rated as Easy, this pattern is accessible to knitters of varying experience levels. The straightforward construction and clear instructions make it an excellent project for those looking to expand their garment-making skills without overwhelming complexity.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Long & Lean Jacket employs fundamental knitting techniques that form the foundation of classic garment construction. The primary stitch pattern used throughout the project is K1, p1 Rib, which creates an elastic, textured fabric with excellent recovery and a polished appearance. This ribbed stitch is worked with the larger needles and produces a gauge of 14 stitches plus 16 rows equaling 4 inches (10 cm).

Ribbed stitching alternates knit and purl stitches in a regular pattern, creating vertical columns that provide both visual interest and functional stretch. This technique is particularly valued in jacket construction as it helps garments maintain their shape and conform comfortably to the body.

Materials and Tools

This pattern calls for specific Lion Brand materials to ensure optimal results:

• Yarn: Lion Brand Homespun in the colorway Wisteria, requiring 4–6 balls depending on size (4 balls for Small, 5 balls for Medium/Large/1X, and 6 balls for 2X)
• Needles: Two sizes of Lion Brand Knitting Needles are required—Size 9 (5.5 mm) and Size 10 (6 mm)—allowing the knitter to work different sections with appropriate needle gauges
• Finishing Tool: A Large-Eye Blunt Needle Set (Set of 6) for seaming and weaving in yarn ends

Pattern Structure

The pattern is written for the smallest size with detailed parenthetical instructions for larger sizes, allowing knitters to easily customize the project to their preferred fit. The note to circle all numbers pertaining to your chosen size before beginning helps prevent errors during construction. As of March 2, 2012, no corrections have been issued for this pattern, indicating its stability and reliability as a tested design.